Designing Learning Activities to Support Young Women’s Interest in Programming and Computational Thinking

Abstract

Over the last few years, the importance of computer science education for children has been promoted more and more vigorously. In addition, the demand for technology occupations has increased rapidly, and there are many job opportunities in computer science. However, there are not many women working in this field. One of the reasons is young women’s lack of interest in computer science.

This study investigates how to attract young women to computer programming and support computational thinking through design and develop learning activities. This study’s approach includes several related researches, theories, and methodologies. Interviews, workshops, and observations were used to determine design requirements. The results demonstrate that tangible and meaningful artifacts are effective educational tools for computer programming. Based on the results, this research developed a prototype, “TomatoBox,” a do-it-yourself kit that creates toys while providing an enjoyable activity to learn programming.